Ingrid Försch

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The apothecary skink(Scincus scincus), also known as the sandfish, is a medium-sized representative of the skink family (Scincidae) with a body size of up to 20 cm. Its distribution area extends from West and North Africa, via the Arabian Peninsula, to Iran.

The body of the apothecary skink is basically yellow-brown in colour and patterned with black horizontal stripes. The tail and legs are quite short in comparison to the broad, strong body. Overall, it is perfectly adapted to life in the sand. The nostrils and eye openings can be closed to prevent grains of sand from entering. In addition, the scales of the apothecary skink are extremely smooth, allowing it to "swim" in the sand, which has earned it the nickname sandfish.

The habitat of the apothecary skink is deserts and dry areas. Here it feeds mainly on various arthropods such as beetles, grasshoppers and spiders. It is able to sense the fine vibrations of its prey in the sand and thus locate it.

The population of the apothecary skink is currently not endangered. It is very popular with terrarium keepers as it is easy to keep and is not subject to any restrictions.